Description
This One-Pan Creamy Parmesan Chicken and Rice is a comforting and delicious meal that combines tender chicken, creamy Parmesan sauce, and fluffy rice in a single skillet. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it features simple ingredients cooked together to create a rich and flavorful dish with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Sauté
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat and Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add the Rice: Stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice, ensuring it is evenly combined with the chicken and sautéed onions.
- Combine Liquids and Herbs: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Add dried thyme and dried parsley, stirring everything together to combine well.
- Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and creates a creamy texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and add additional salt and pepper as needed for your preferred flavor balance.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce may be less rich.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the dish to rest covered off heat for a few minutes before serving.
- Add vegetables like peas or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
- Ensure the rice is evenly distributed for even cooking and flavor infusion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
